Manicures have become essential grooming, according to new research carried out by National Statistics, which reflects the changing habits of the British consumer.

For the first time since 1947, the cost of a manicure has been added to the 650 items picked by the Government agency, as "representative of consumer spending patterns".

Carole Warburton, manager of the Nail Lounge at the Daniel Galvin Salon in London, explains the trend by saying: "British women are taking more time for themselves. It is all part of grooming. And men do it too."

Nail technician Leighton Denny, who has tended to the talons of Nigella Lawson, Jade Jagger and Gabby Logan, says: "Britain has become a more hand-conscious nation.

"Having well-cared-for hands and beautifully manicured nails will make any woman feel more feminine, and gives them more confidence. After all, you should treat your nails as jewels."

DIY nails

Firstly, remove all traces of nail polish, being careful not to get any remover on the surrounding skin. Then create the shape of your nails, by filing them with a soft grade natural nail file, not a coarse emery board or metal file.

"They can be damaging to the nail and cause it to split and peel. File nails from the outer edge to the centre, but do not saw it back and forth," says Denny.

"Most women will go for squoval - straight across the top with a rounded edge, but it's not always the most flattering."

After that, soak your nails with some whitening tablets in warm water for two minutes, and use an orange stick to gently push back cuticles.

He adds: "Never cut your cuticles, as it acts as a barrier to keep bacteria from entering the body."

Exfoliate hands with a moisturising hand scrub, then apply a drop of cuticle oil onto the cuticle.

"I like using cuticle oil," Denny says. "It provides instant moisture, and should be applied at least three times a week."

Once you've done all that, you can start by putting on a base coat, followed by nail varnish and finally, a good quality topcoat.

No time?

If you're short on time, but need to get your nails in tip-top condition, Denny has a few suggestions.

"Remove any chipped nail polish - it's better to have them clean than messy varnish, which gives off a bad impression," he says.

"Keep a buffer in your handbag, and make sure you buff your nails to make them shiny. Marks & Spencer's Miracle Buffer cloth feels like velvet and doesn't damage the nail, while the shine lasts."